Praise for Old Firm fans

Laura Sturrock

A senior police officer has praised the majority of fans who behaved well during and after the Scottish Cup Semi-Final between Rangers and Celtic on Sunday, April 17.

This is despite the fact that a total of 18 arrests were made in and around the stadium and in the city centre on the day of the match.

Chief Superintendent Brian McInulty said: “Overall, both Scottish Cup semi-finals went well over the weekend, with a thrilling atmosphere at the National Stadium, Hampden and good-natured celebrations following the matches.

“On Sunday there were a number of incidents in and around the stadium and in the city centre where crimes occurred relating to football and alcohol. A post-match inquiry is on-going into these incidents which includes an investigation into the use of flares, smoke bombs, offensive singing and banners, which could result in additional arrests.

“Our enquiries are not yet complete and there are a number of investigations being carried out in relation to incidents of violence across Scotland and at this time, it is still to be ascertained whether these incidents are football-related.

“I must thank the majority of supporters who got behind their team, were well-behaved and enjoyed two fantastic fixtures over the weekend.”

The following offences were immediately detected on Sunday 17 April:

Eight men were arrested, detained in police custody and appeared at court including: aged 54 (alleged sectarian threatening or abusive behaviour and assault), aged 22 (alleged threatening or abusive behaviour and assault), aged 29 (alleged drink-driving and sectarian threatening or abusive behaviour), aged 38 (alleged threatening or abusive behaviour and assault), two aged 26 (for alleged offences under the Offensive Behaviour at Football Scotland Act), aged 31 (alleged offences under the Offensive Behaviour at Football Scotland Act), aged 21 (alleged offences under the Offensive Behaviour at Football Scotland Act.

Three men aged 18, 52 and 27 were arrested and released on an undertaking (alleged offences under the Offensive Behaviour at Football Scotland Act).